“`html
U.S. Offers Uruguay Ocean Patrol Vessel
Montevideo, Uruguay – In early 2026, the United States offered Uruguay a donation of a Reliance-class ocean patrol vessel, a proposal initially discussed in late 2022. The offer, reported by El Observador and confirmed by Telenoche, aims to bolster Uruguay’s maritime security capabilities. These vessels, dating back to the late 1960s, are currently in service with the U.S. Coast Guard and are available for transfer to partner nations through the Excess Defense Articles program.
Details of the Offer
The U.S. Navy also contacted the Uruguayan National Navy to present the offer directly. The Reliance-class cutters are being offered as a means of enhancing Uruguay’s ability to patrol it’s extensive coastline and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). While the previous Uruguayan management considered the offer, it was not pursued due to concerns about the age of the vessels.
current evaluation and Potential Costs
uruguay’s Ministry of Defense is now re-evaluating the proposal, with